JOIN US AUGUST 10TH - 11TH, 2018

FAQ

Here you'll find some of the most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please contact us at balloonfestival@potawatomi.org

1Where is the festival?

It's located at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation festival grounds. If you need an address to put in your GPS, we suggest 1702 S Gordon Cooper Dr., Shawnee, OK 74801. Check out the maps below for the best routes to get here and parking locations

The festival is from 4 p.m.-11 p.m. on Friday and from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday. The only event on Sunday will be the commercial rides.

3When can I see balloons?

? The best chance to see balloons will be during commercial rides and the balloon glow (balloons do not launch during the glow). Commercial rides are at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday and the balloon glows are at 8:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Balloon events are weather permitting.

4Can I ride a balloon?

Yes! We have tethered rides and commercial rides available. There are no weight limits for rides.
Tethered rides are available for purchase. The cost is $15 for children and $20 for adults. There is no pre-registration for tethered rides. Guests can expect to wait in line and should arrive early. On Friday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., there will be one handicap accessible balloon available. A tethered ride is similar to a balloon ride, but the balloon remains tethered to the ground. Typically the balloon will go above the trees and lights and rides last several minutes.
Commercial rides are available for $250 per person. These rides must be booked in advance with a $50 non-refundable deposit. The balance is due the day of the ride. Age restrictions for commercial flights are decided by each circumstance; typically 3 and under do not fly. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Rides last between 45-90 minutes, depending on the wind. Visit firelakeballoonfest.com to book a flight.

5What happens if it rains?

If the weather will interfere with any scheduled events then we will post updated information here. Check back often for the most recent info.

6What does it cost?

Admission and parking are free. You'll want to bring cash for food, drinks, the vendor market and the carnival. There is an ATM on site.

7Can I bring my pet?

No, pets are not allowed.

8Can I bring an ice chest or cooler?

No, we do not allow outside food or drinks.

9Can I bring a weapon?

No, weapons are not allowed.

10 Is photography allowed?

Yes! Please take photos. No drones allowed.

11What does the carnival cost?

The carnival is cash only and each ticket cost $1 or 22 tickets for $20. Each ride requires 4 tickets. Wristbands are available for $20 and are valid from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday or Saturday.

12What is the kids' zone?

The kid zone will include inflatables, a petting zoo, basketball, face painting, and more. All the activities in the kid zone are free.

13 Who is performing?

Friday includes live music from Shiloh Steel, Heath Wright, and Superfreak. Saturday includes live music from Amanda Coffee and "Pops", White Lighters, Vince Van and The Outlaws and Zodiac. On Saturday the community stage will include entertainment from the local community. Acts include TheDoggieSpot.biz, Planet Fitness, a workout class, and Native American hand drum group and Native American dancers.

14What is the art show?

Nearly 20 local artists will display their art during the balloon festival. Some artist will be available for questions about their art and some art will be available for purchase.The hours are Friday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

15What should I know about the 5k race?

Packet pickup is at FireLake Wellness Center on Aug. 9 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Aug. 10 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and in-person pickup is available at packet pickup and the morning of the race from 6 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. The race begins and ends at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center, 1899 S Gordon Cooper Drive.

16What are the kite performances?

Kite performances by Austin End of the Line Kite Team and last about 10-12 minutes. Kites will be available for purchase and there will be an area for spectators to fly kites.

17What is the vendor market?

The vendor market and food trucks will be open from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday. A variety of 50 retail vendors will offer apparel merchandise, home goods, jewelry, art and more. More than 20 food trucks will be available, including burgers, kettle corn, tacos, desserts and more.

18 Is camping allowed?

No, no tent camping is allowed. There are a small number of RV spots available. Please visit firelakeballoonfest.com to reserve one. These must be reserved in advance.

19Will beer be available?

Yes, beer, soft drinks, water and sports drinks will be available for purchase. Beverages are cash only.

20What is the Outdoor Nation Expo?

The Outdoor Nation Expo is a hunting and fishing expo. It will take place at FireLake Arena on Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission for this event is free. The expo will host hunting, fishing, camping, shooting and backpacking vendors. There will be opportunities for youth to fish and participate in archery. Other kids activities include go-karts, a rock climbing wall, a live dog show, indoor catfishing, laser archery, and a bb gun shoot.